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If you have used artificial tears recently, don’t blink. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a recall and a warning linking some artificial tears products to a cluster of antibiotic-resistant eye infections in multiple states.
So is your preferred brand of artificial tears caught up in this warning? Which products are affected? What do you do if you have the product? Or if you’re infected? We’ll tell you everything you need to know.
Also, you’ll want to bookmark The Krazy Coupon Lady’s full list of recalls to see what other items in your home may pose a risk to you and your family.
EzriCare Artificial Tears have been recalled due to a cluster of serious eye infections.
Keep an eye out for EzriCare Artificial Tears (Carboxymethylcellulose Sodium, 10mg in 1mL) in ½-fluid ounce (15mL) containers (NDC: 79503-0101-15). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are investigating a connection between a recent cluster of serious eye infections and the use of the EzriCare Artificial Tears — which have been sold at Walmart, Walgreens, Amazon, and other retailers.
From May 2022 to January 2023, the CDC has identified 56 cases from 11 states with a dangerous type of bacteria called VIM-GES-CRPA. The majority of these patients reported using EzriCare Artificial Tears before getting infected, leading to the official voluntary recall that was issued on Feb. 2, 2023.
Here’s a list of the 11 states that have reported incidents of antibiotic-resistant bacteria associated with artificial tears:
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Florida
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- Nevada
- Texas
- Utah
- Washington
The bacteria can cause vision loss, severe corneal damage, and even death.
Laboratory testing of the artificial tears has found the presence of the VIM-GES-CRPA bacteria, and the CDC recommends that patients immediately stop using EzriCare Artificial Tears until further investigation is complete.
In the 11-state cluster of VIM-GES-CRPA infections, people have reported vision loss, scarring on the cornea, and even the need for a cornea transplant. In the most extreme cases, patients suffered permanent vision loss, hospitalization, and even death in one case.
Symptoms of these eye infections include redness, pain, and blurred vision.
Symptoms of the eye infections associated with the use of EzriCare Artificial Tears include eye redness, pain, swelling, discharge, and blurred vision. Some people may also experience sensitivity to light and a feeling of having something in their eye. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is recommended to see an eye doctor immediately.
If the infection caused by using EzriCare Artificial Tears isn’t treated quickly and properly, it can lead to some serious and potentially permanent eye problems.
There is a class action lawsuit forming.
EzriCare’s first statement about the CDC investigation pointed the finger at the India-based manufacturer of their eye drops, denied any reports of adverse affects, and stated that there would be no recall.
A week later, they posted the FDA’s “voluntary recall” announcement. Meanwhile, Sokolove Law has set up a website looking for EzriCare customers to file a class action lawsuit against the company.
RELATED: These class action settlements may owe you money
Contact EzriCare if you’re looking for a refund — but no guarantees.
There’s no telling just yet if you’ll be able to return your EzriCare products to the place you bought them. And although EzriCare claims that all sales are final, they offer a customer service phone number (718-502-6610) and an email address (ezricare@ezrirx.com).
Keep in mind that a class action lawsuit is forming, and you may consider reaching out to an attorney if you have been affected by the recalled product.
